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Overview

SKALE nodes run in lightweight containers so a single server can secure multiple SKALE Chains at once. This keeps costs low for validators and chain owners while isolating resources and failures between chains.

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What are Containerized Nodes?

Containerization packages the SKALE node runtime (consensus, execution, storage, networking) into isolated units. Each container is mapped to a chain assignment, with dedicated CPU/memory limits and network isolation. Validators can run several containers on one host, maximizing utilization while keeping faults contained.

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Architecture

  • Container runtime – Docker-style containers with cgroups limits to guarantee CPU/memory boundaries per chain.
  • Network isolation – Virtual networking separates chain traffic and prevents cross-talk.
  • Chain mapping – Each container is bound to a chain assignment from SKALE Manager and participates in its consensus committee.

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Benefits

  • Efficiency – Run multiple chains per server, reducing hardware costs.
  • Isolation – Performance or faults on one chain don’t spill into others.
  • Rapid deployment – Start, stop, or rotate chain assignments in minutes.
  • Elastic scale – Add containers for new chains without rebuilding infrastructure.

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How It Works

When SKALE Manager assigns a node to a chain, the validator spins up a container with the right configuration, keys, and resource limits. Containers receive proposals, sign blocks, store state, and rotate out cleanly when the node’s assignment changes.

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Implementation Details

  • Runtime – Docker-compatible runtime; orchestration via Kubernetes or similar is common for fleets.
  • Resource controls – cgroups/quotas for CPU, RAM, and storage per chain.
  • Observability – Per-container metrics/logging simplify troubleshooting and SLA reporting.

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Use Cases

  • Validator economics – Higher rewards per server by hosting multiple chains.
  • Enterprise deployments – Run isolated environments for business units or partners.
  • Testing – Spin up short-lived chains or environments without new hardware.